French Riviera
Its Friday morning February 4th and I am in the Munich airport en route to Gassin (via Nice). 3 days ago this was adventure was not even a thought in my mind. I have break before my next project and so naturally I decided to jaunt to France. It helps that one of my dearest friends is living in Gassin (15 minutes from Saint Tropez) for the year.
This is a petit glimpse of some adventures we had and suggestions of where to stay, dine, shop, sip rosé, people watch and of course where to find the best coffee and croissants.
Check out my post from July 2021 with a lot of additional favorite spots.
Saint Paul De Vence
I just love this medieval village, nestled in the mountains above the Mediterranean. I flew into Nice, Kate came and scooped me up, we headed to Saint Paul de Vence (about an hour from Nice) for lunch and a little exploring. The windy stone streets are full of art galleries and a large boules court is in the village center. When we came back in February 2020 we spent 2 nights in the cutest AIRBNB here. Saint Paul de Vence is home to La Colombe d'Or, also a fabulous place to stay or dine. Be sure to check out the history of the Colombe d'Or. It was a convening place for artists during and after WW11. A number of the artists couldn't pay for their stay so they left paintings and that is why they have the most incredible art collection. There is a wall that surrounds the village, you can walk all around the top of it.
Le Tilleul - Great lunch & Dinner spot
I have had both lunch and dinner here. It was warm enought to sit outside on the terrace. The food is fabulous and it has a great atmosphere.
Place du Tilleul, 06570 St-Paul-de-Vence France
www.restaurant-letilleul.com
Ramatuelle
The beaches of Saint Tropez are a bit more deserted at this time of the year, but no less breathtaking. There are only a few beach spots open at this time of the year, which means that the ones open are happening, especially on a gorgeous Sunday afternoon.
Le Migon - Plage de Pampelonne
This rustic beach restaurant instantly became one of my favorite spots at Pampelonne. Its located right on the beach and has a very simple ambiance, its not flashy like a lot of the other beach restaurants. We were adventurous and tried the sea urchin. Tasted like it had been pulled from the sea that morning, definitely required some rosé to wash it down. Make a reservation.
1550 Bonne Terrasse Quartier Bonne Terrasse Golfe de Saint-Tropez, 83350 Ramatuelle, France
www.plage-restaurant-le-migon-golfe-saint-tropez.com/
The Saturday market in Saint Tropez is the biggest. The market moved back to the quainter location in Le Place de Lice. The previous summer it was in the parking lot at the marina because of construction. Each village in the area has a smaller market throughout the week which are also lots of fun.
La Tarte Tropezienne - Place des Lices
I usually make at least one stop a day at one of the many Tarte Tropezinnes throughout the south. This one has a great spot to sit outside and enjoy the people watching.
Places des lices83990 Saint-Tropez
www.latartetropezienne.fr
Brocantes - French Flea Market
Visiting the local Brocantes (a French word for flea market) is always a highlight of my trip. It is a lively encounter with everyday French culture, sometimes including a band and always a food/ beverage truck. I always pick up a few unique finds. Our go to markets is the Cogolin.
www.fleamapket.com
Stay
Kate and Matt are renting for most charming home right below the village of Gassin. The house overlooks all the Minuty vines. Obviously this was a dream for me, we took daily strolls though the vines.
Related Posts
French Riviera - July 2021
South of France - February 2020